The opening ceremony of the totally redesigned and renovated Harry Oppenheimer Diamond Museum will launch Israel’s Third International Rough Diamond Conference on Feb. 11. The museum is a subsidiary of the Israel Diamond Institute.

The opening, which will take place at 10 a.m. at the museum, located within the Israeli Diamond Industry complex in Ramat Gan, will be attended by an array of leaders from the global diamond industry, ministers from African producing countries and representatives of the Israeli Diamond Industry. The De Beers Group will be represented by Gareth Penny, De Beers Group managing director and Varda Shine, Diamond Trading Company managing director. The museum opening will be the first in a series of events being held in conjunction with the Rough Diamond Conference.

“I am happy that after more than 20 years we have literally created a brand-new museum, well suited to the 21st century,” said Shmuel Schnitzer, chairman of the board of the museum. “We have integrated the latest technology and design elements. This museum will offer an exciting visit for members of the industry, as well as for tourists, students and the general public.”

The permanent exhibition combines artifacts, displays, and information presented on graphic panels, and uses video segments to enhance the experience of the visitor. At the heart of the experience is a “host” who accompanies the visitor on a virtual journey, where a variety of experts explain the route the diamond takes until it reaches its final destination. At each stage of the tour visitors can access additional information on interactive stands.

The museum also has a new space for changing exhibitions. Inaugurating that space will be an exhibition provided by the DTC of the Shining Light Awards Diamond Design Collection for 2006 –2007. The awards are given every year for excellence in diamond jewelry design to the most talented young South African designers.

JCK